Swinging Confidently: Embracing Body Image in Golf
Reading Time: 4 minutes
Written by Natasha Ainsley-Thomas for Carolina ForeHER
In golf, a sport built on precision and skill, the journey often extends beyond mastering the perfect swing to grappling with personal struggles that shape the players themselves. Golf prodigy Lexi Thompson recently shared her deeply personal journey with body image and self-confidence, offering a glimpse into a challenge many face, both on and off the course.
“So this is a pretty personal post, and some people might think it’s stupid or that I’m crazy, but I’m going to share it anyway…. One of the biggest issues I’ve gone through is my self-image/body confidence,” Lexi shared. “I was putting my body through brutal workouts twice a day, not really eating because I thought that’s the way I would lose weight… I would compare myself to these stick-thin or fitness models on Instagram, tearing myself down because I didn’t have the toned stomach or the big butt.”
Lexi’s words offer a powerful reminder that the journey to self-love often intersects with societal pressures, personal expectations, and the unique challenges faced by athletes. Golf, however, stands out as a sport that celebrates inclusivity, reminding us all that there is no single way to look or play like a golfer.
Navigating Body Image Challenges in Golf
For golfers, whether beginners or seasoned pros, navigating the greens often means navigating a complex relationship with self-perception. The pressure to conform to societal beauty standards and the endless comparisons fueled by social media can take a toll on confidence. Lexi’s honesty shines a light on this reality, encouraging a shift in focus from meeting external ideals to embracing the individuality of each player.
A Personal Reflection
Reflecting on my own experiences, I can’t help but think about the role my mother played in shaping my confidence on the course. She wasn’t always able to help me with my swing or understand the intricacies of my golf stories, but she had one piece of advice that stuck: “If you look good, you feel good, and if you feel good, you play good.”
Our shopping trips for golf clothes became more than just practical errands; they were opportunities to define what “looking good” meant to me. My mother always made sure I felt comfortable and confident in whatever I chose, teaching me that style and self-assurance go hand in hand. It’s a lesson I carry with me to this day, reminding me that confidence on the course begins with feeling great about myself.
The Inclusive Golfer’s Body
Golf, unlike many sports, welcomes players of all shapes and sizes. The game’s beauty lies in its diversity—every swing is unique, every player brings their own strengths, and there’s no set standard for what a golfer “should” look like. This inclusivity is a cornerstone of the sport, proving that success in golf comes from skill, determination, and self-belief, not from conforming to an idealized image.
Lexi’s Call to Embrace Self-Love
“The only way you’ll ever be truly happy though is if you love yourself first,” Lexi shared in her post. “You should never compare your body to others. It’s a never-ending battle of being miserable, trust me. Your body is your body; it is beautiful, so embrace it.”
Her message resonates far beyond the world of golf, serving as a powerful reminder that happiness stems from within. As golfers, the focus should shift from external pressures to internal growth, fostering a love for the game and oneself.
Conclusion
Golf is more than a sport—it’s a community where every player’s journey is unique and valuable. By sharing stories like Lexi Thompson’s and my own, we hope to encourage a culture of self-acceptance and confidence within the golfing world. Whether you’re stepping onto the course for the first time or perfecting your swing, remember that the magic of golf lies in its inclusivity. Every swing is a celebration of individuality, and every player contributes to the beauty of the game.
Let’s swing confidently, embrace self-love, and redefine what it means to thrive on the course.